A repair to a candleabra

[CanadianScroller]

Some time ago I was given a candelabra prop from a Bridal shop to repair.
It is made of 1/4" material. I think it is hardboard or MDF.
The entire project is covered in black sparkles.
One leg was broken.
At first I thought I would just recut the same shape and sandwich the wood together. It would be a cheesy fix at best.
I decided to use a beveled inlay technique to cut a tab like a jigsaw puzzle and have the new leg wedged solidly to the original piece.
I have attached photos so you can see how it worked out.
I made the pics smaller so they would transfer better.

I still have to come up with a price for making 6 more of these.
2 at 5', 2 at 4', and 2 at 3'.
I would prefer using plywood to MDF.
I am also thinking of just making the candle heads and the feet separate and using ABS plastic pipe for the shaft. That will reduce material cost and make it easier to transport......besides I dont want to cut the slots for the 5' shafts!

Comments on the fix and th pricing wouldbe appreciated

[Bruce-P]

Carl,

If I interpret the pictures correctly, each candelabra is composed of two identical pieces slotted together. If yes, how about the following:

1. Since each piece is symmetrical, stack cut 2 (or 4) half pieces (probably have to use a spiral for some of it). The half slots would, of course, need to be cut in pairs.

2. Connect 2 half-pieces together using the same kind of joint you did on the repair, (or half lap or finger joint or ....).

This way you avoid cutting the long slots and save on cutting time.
-----------
Bruce P.

[JohnB]

G'day Carl,
(Cant get the bloody "R" to go backwards) lol

I like the fix mate.

Here's how I'd go about making the others.
Mark them out on the sheet of material and cut the slots on a table saw, before you scroll them.
Another method would be to cut them into 4 pieces identical, and use a centre pole with grooves to assemble.
Have put up a mud map. Once the grooves are machined, you can knock the corners of at 45o.

[CanadianScroller]

great ideas ! thanks